Destinations / Caribbean / Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia Travel Guide
The most dramatic scenery in the Caribbean: the Pitons, rainforest and a drive-in volcano. Stay near Soufrière for the views, plan for the long transfer from the airport (or take the helicopter), and fill out the entry form before you fly.
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Where I'm sending people now
Soufrière and the Pitons for views and luxury, Rodney Bay for restaurants and nightlife, Marigot Bay for a calm middle ground, Cap Estate for quiet and golf.
December to April is dry and peak season. May and June are the value window. June to November is hurricane and rainy season.
Jade Mountain runs about $1,800 to $4,000+ a night and Sugar Beach about $900 to $2,000+, plus 20% tax and service charges.
Most US flights land at Hewanorra in the south: about 50 minutes to Soufrière and 90 minutes to Rodney Bay by car, or a 6 to 8 minute helicopter. Fill out the online immigration form within 3 days of travel.
Where I'm sending people now
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Punta Cana, Turks and Caicos and Puerto Rico, all-inclusive and not.
Where I'm sending people now
Hawaii
Maui, Kauai, Oahu and the Big Island, and how to pick between them.
Italy
Rome and the Amalfi Coast, with the hotels and tours worth booking ahead.
Caribbean
Punta Cana, Turks and Caicos and Puerto Rico, all-inclusive and not.
Know before you go
Getting there
Most long-haul flights land at Hewanorra (UVF) in the south, with nonstops from several US cities, Toronto and London. From UVF it's about an hour to Soufriere and 1.5 hours to Rodney Bay; a helicopter cuts that to about 10-15 minutes. George F.L. Charles (SLU) near Castries handles regional flights.
Getting around
I'd skip driving: roads are steep and winding, they drive on the left, and you'll need a local permit. Taxis are pricey and not metered, so agree on the fare first or book a driver for the day.
Money and tipping
The Eastern Caribbean dollar is the local currency, but US dollars and cards are widely accepted. Check bills for a 10% service charge and VAT before tipping extra.
How I'd spend 5 days
Day 1 Arrive at UVF, transfer to Soufriere, Pitons sunset
Day 2 Sugar Beach and snorkeling, spa afternoon
Day 3 Gros Piton hike or Tet Paul Nature Trail, Sulphur Springs mud bath
Day 4 Catamaran up the west coast to Marigot Bay
Day 5 Chocolate-making at a cocoa estate, slow beach afternoon
Hotels I'd book in Saint Lucia
Things to do in Saint Lucia
Where to eat in Saint Lucia
Dasheene at Ladera
Boucan by Hotel Chocolat
Orlando's
The Naked Fisherman
Martha's Tables
Spice of India
Where I'm sending people now
Hawaii
Maui, Kauai, Oahu and the Big Island, and how to pick between them.
Italy
Rome and the Amalfi Coast, with the hotels and tours worth booking ahead.
Caribbean
Punta Cana, Turks and Caicos and Puerto Rico, all-inclusive and not.
Saint Lucia FAQ
Which airport should I fly into?
Most US flights land at Hewanorra (UVF) in the south. It's about 50 minutes to Soufrière and 90 minutes to Rodney Bay by car, or 6 to 8 minutes by helicopter.
Is there an entry form?
Yes. Fill out the online immigration form at travelslu.govt.lc within 3 days before you fly. It's one per family, and you show the QR code when you land.
Can I drive in St. Lucia?
Yes, on the left. You need a local permit (about $22 at the rental desk) or an International Driving Permit. The roads are steep and winding.
Is St. Lucia safe?
The US rates it Level 2, "exercise increased caution," for crime. Use licensed taxis and tours booked through your resort.
Do I need Eastern Caribbean dollars?
No. Prices are often shown in US dollars too, though change usually comes back in EC dollars.
Does St. Lucia get seaweed?
Mostly on the Atlantic east coast. The resort areas are on the sheltered Caribbean west coast.
Can I hike Gros Piton without a guide?
No. A guide is required and you book at the trailhead in Fond Gens Libre. Plan on 4 to 5 hours and start early.
When is the best time to go?
December to April is dry and busiest. May and June are the best value. June to November is rainy and hurricane season.